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November is a brilliant time for travel, whether you’re looking for a pre-holiday escape or simply want to enjoy the benefits of shoulder season.

And the best part — there’s always one corner of the world that perfectly matches your travel style.

From warm, sunny beaches to modern cities high on pre-holiday cheer, discover 14 of the best places to visit in November for a memorable getaway — complete with insider tips on what to see and do.

Low-angle shot of a road bordered by trees with rusty foliage, captured on a rainy day under a gray cloudy sky.

Best places to visit in November for warm escapes

Wondering where to go in November for some winter warmth? Here are our top suggestions — from the Middle East to the Caribbean and beyond.

1.  Dubai, UAE

November marks the start of winter in Dubai. Instead of that intense heat you get at other times of the year, it’s pleasantly warm weather — just right for exploring.

Events like the Dubai Fitness Challenge and Dubai Design Week happen in November, and there are also plenty of other events across film, art, and food. In other words, you’re guaranteed a packed Dubai itinerary

But this also makes it peak season in Dubai — so book your tickets well in advance.  

Aerial view of Dubai with its highways and skyscrapers lit up at night.
Dubai cityscape with Burj Khalifa illuminated at night; Source: Pexels

Top activities

  • Explore the 1,000+ outlets in Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping malls.
  • Visit the Burj Khalifa, and check out the Dubai Fountain
  • Spend a day at Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree.
  • Book a desert safari — November’s pleasant temperatures are the perfect time to experience the desert.

Average cost

Dubai can be expensive in November. Expect to spend around $120–$300 per day for a comfortable experience. 

Language and cultural considerations

English is widely spoken (around 75% of the people here are expats). And while it is more liberal than other destinations in the region, it’s still largely conservative — so pack some modest clothes. Tipping is optional. 

You can’t use WhatsApp for calls (only text and voice messages), so download Google Meet or ToTok, UAE’s version of WhatsApp, for VOIP calls.

2. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands part of Spain, located off the coast of Africa is an ideal place to visit in November. Unlike most of Europe, these islands boast warm temperatures with little to no rain — perfect for beach days.

The International Kite Festival in Fuerteventura usually happens in November. It’s hosted in the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park, where thousands of amateur and pro kite flyers from all over Europe come to fly kites. Before booking your flight, read our Spain travel guide to be well-prepared for your trip.

Rocky coastline and beach at Papagayo, Lanzarote, one of the Canary islands
Lanzarote’s rugged coastline, Canary Islands; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Go stargazing in La Palma, one of the best stargazing destinations in the world — November’s clear skies make the experience even better.
  • Explore national parks like Teide National Park in Tenerife and Caldera de Taburiente National Park in La Palma. They’re great for hiking. 
  • If you’re a pro, go surfing in El Quemo (the Canaries Pipeline) — one of the toughest spots in the world. Beginners, on the other hand, should try Famara

Average cost

The Canary Islands are quite affordable. Budget travelers — who split rooms or stay in hostels — can enjoy a good vacation for as low as $50 per day.

A mid-range vacation would cost around $100–$150 daily.

Language and cultural considerations

While Spanish is the official language, most locals also speak English. The beaches in the Canary Islands are pretty safe, but it is still important to look for the colored flags — red means strong currents, yellow means moderate, and green means calm. 

3. Caribbean Islands 

Another place to visit in November for excellent weather is the Caribbean. It’s at the end of the hurricane season, and depending on your budget, you have plenty of islands to choose from.

We recommend Trinidad, Tobago, or Grenada for a budget-friendly vacation and Turks and Caicos if you’re in the mood to splurge.

The Bahamas is also a good choice, especially if you’re a cinema fan, as the Bahamas International Film Festival is usually set for November.

A beach in turks and Caicos with a line of pnk umbrellas and chairs at the shoreline.
A beach in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Explore historical sites on your island of choice. Every island has at least one — like Old San Juan in Puerto Rico and St. George’s in Grenada.
  • Indulge in water sports like surfing and snorkeling at your island’s beaches.
  • Check out FOMO experiences like the chocolate harvest tours in St. Lucia and the rum distilleries in Grenada.
  • Book a Caribbean cruise — it’s a great way to see many islands, and the onboard experience will be worth calling home about. 

Average cost

Depending on your island of choice and travel style, budget around $75–$200 per day for the basics. 

Language and cultural considerations

Each Caribbean island has a unique cultural heritage and norms — so do some reading before you arrive so you know what to expect.

Also, English is not commonly spoken. Depending on which island you visit, you’ll find locals speaking Dutch, Spanish, and French

Finally, cash is widely used in the Caribbean Islands, so make sure to have some on hand, especially if you plan to visit local markets or eat at small, local restaurants.

4. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is another of our favorite places to visit in November for sunny weather. Temperatures usually range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), and as November falls at the end of the rainy season, it’s mainly dry. Although November isn’t peak season yet, there’s still plenty to do in Cancun. Plus, if you visit this time of year, you’re fortunate to have fewer tourists and lower prices.

Two festivals happen in November and are definitely worth checking out:

  • Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): Celebrated on November 1 and 2, it honors the dead. 
  • The Patron Saint’s Feast of Christ the King: It occurs between November 20 and 26 every year and includes special church services and processions.
Front view of El Castillo, a stepped pyramid at Chichén Itzá.
El Castillo pyramid at Chichén Itzá, Cancun; Source: Pexels

Top activities

  • Take a day trip to Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 
  • Enjoy views of Cancun’s pristine beaches and the Caribbean Sea from the nearly 200-foot Sky Wheel in the Hotel Zone.
  • Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres and explore sights like the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) and Punta Sur (the island’s southernmost point with a temple dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel).

Average cost

Expect to spend around $100–$200 for a comfortable stay, including fine dining, activities, and even taxis. 

Language and cultural considerations

Spanish is the official language in Cancun, but most locals in tourist hotspots speak English. Pesos and US dollars are accepted.

Finally, if you’re staying in a resort, don’t lose the access bracelet. You’ll need to pay extra for a replacement; getting one can be a hassle.

Best places to visit in November for city escapes

If you want to check off some destinations on your bucket list while taking advantage of the shoulder and off-peak seasons and the smaller crowds, don’t miss out on these beautiful cities.

5. Paris, France

Paris is one of the best places to visit in Europe in November when the city starts preparing for the holiday season.

By the second week of November, most shops start putting out holiday decorations, and Christmas markets begin to pop up.

The world’s largest photographic art fair, Paris Photo, also occurs in November. And maybe most importantly, there are fewer tourists this month.

However, the weather can be pretty tricky — there’s not much sun and quite a bit of rain. So pack a stylish poncho and prioritize indoor experiences in your itinerary. 

Illuminated Louvre Pyramid with the Louvre Museum in the background.
The Louvre pyramid at night; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Visit iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and The Louvre.
  • Head to Temple de la Sibylle atop Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for some incredible views (and photos) of the city below.
  • Head to the districts of Belleville, Oberkampf, and Ménilmontant in the east of Paris to see some incredible street art. Not all of Paris’s masterpieces are in museums.

Average cost

November in Paris is relatively cheap compared to the summer months. However, it can still be costly, so expect to spend a minimum of $100–$120 per day. 

Language and cultural considerations

While English is widely spoken, French is preferred. Learn some phrases in French, and don’t forget to say bonjour when you enter cafés or small shops.

Also, apéros (pre-meal drinks and snacks) are a way of life. Most supermarkets even have an apéros section near the entrance.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague in the Czech Republic is another of our favorite places to go in November, despite the cold weather and short days.

For one thing, it makes for a great budget trip to Europe. It’s pretty quiet at this time of year, too, so you can explore at leisure.

Apart from the regular sights, there are quite a few November-only events like:

  • St. Martin’s Day: Celebrated on November 11 when you drink the first wine of the season.
  • Pork Fest by the River: A food festival held on the Smíchovská Náplavka river in early November to spotlight Czech pork specialties like roast pork knuckle, ribs, goulash, and more.
  • Prague Sounds Festival: Usually held early to mid-November, the festival features many genres, including jazz, electronica, and contemporary classic music.
Illuminated Dancing House in Prague at night with blurred car lights.
The Dancing House, Prague; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Check out Charles Bridge, a Gothic stone bridge connecting Lesser Town and Old Town. It’s lit with gas lamps every year around Christmas.
  • Visit St. Vitus Cathedral (the most important cathedral in Prague) and Prague Castle (the largest medieval complex in Europe).
  • Take a photo of the Dancing House. The building has a unique shape resembling a pair of dancers, with a twisted metal sculpture nicknamed “Medusa” at the top.

Average cost

As it’s off-season, you can plan a comfortable trip for around $60–$100 a day, on average. 

Language and cultural considerations

English is spoken in the tourist areas, but a little Czech will definitely help. Prague — like most of Europe — is best explored on foot, so pack some walking shoes. Finally, leaving a tip, 10%–15% of your bill, is standard practice. 

7. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech in November is pleasant. Moderate crowds, mild weather, and a little rain make it the perfect time to explore the souks, take day trips to nearby deserts like Agafay, and do some sightseeing.

Also, the Marrakech International Film Festival typically starts in the last week of November and runs into December, offering free open-air screenings. 

Entrance to Marrakech train station, featuring geometric patterns and a large clock.
The Marrakech train station; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Try Moroccan delicacies like snail soup, brochettes (Moroccan Kebabs), and chebakia (sweet cookie).
  • Visit attractions like the Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Medersa, and Koutoubia Mosque.
  • Check out the street performances — acrobats, snake charmers, and more — at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the city’s cultural hub. 

Average cost

In November, Marakkech is relatively affordable. A comfortable vacation costs around $60–$100 per day. 

Language and cultural considerations

Most Moroccans speak at least basic English. Marrakech is quite conservative, so dress modestly — cover your knees and avoid sleeveless shirts and crop tops.

We also suggest taking a walking tour of the city to appreciate its history. 

Best places to visit in November for nature

Despite being considered a dreary, in-between month, there’s a subtle beauty to November. In the northern hemisphere, fall lingers even as the world (and wildlife) prepare for the fresh promise of winter. And down south, it’s the same — nature holds on to spring’s gentleness before summer’s onset.

Here are four places to experience the beauty of November’s nature. 

8. Yosemite National Park, USA

If you’re a nature lover wondering where to go in November, we suggest Yosemite National Park in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains.

The park is home to some of the oldest giant sequoia trees in the world, and iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome make it a favorite with rock climbers worldwide.

In November, you can enjoy all of this beauty in peace, as there are few crowds. You might also get the chance to witness the first snowfall of the year. You can follow animal tracks if it snows and learn about their journey.

Panoramic view of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan on the left.
Yosemite Valley with El Capitan on the far left; Source: Pexels

Top activities

  • Visit Yosemite Valley to see iconic sights like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
  • Explore the Mariposa Grove — home to over 500 giant sequoia trees.
  • Hike the Mist Trail to see both Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.

Average cost

Yosemite Valley is expensive (around $350 per night). For a more affordable vacation, you can stay in nearby Mariposa.

Depending on which option you pick, expect to spend around $200–$400 per day, including the park entrance fee — $15 per person or $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days.

Cultural considerations

Yosemite National Park only accepts credit cards or mobile payment services at their entrance stations — no cash. And if you want to stay overnight, you’ll need a wilderness camping permit. 

9. Namibia, Africa

If you’ve got Africa on your bucket list, Namibia is one of the best places to travel in November.

Summer’s just starting, and the comparatively cooler weather is a great time to explore the wild outdoors before things get too hot. 

This month marks​​ the start of the rainy season (calving season), which is perfect for viewing wildlife​​ (look out for the young ones) and watching flamingos as they migrate back to the Walvis Bay Wetlands, south of Swakopmund.

Dead camel trees against orange dunes in Deadvlei, Namibia.
Dead Vlei, Namibia; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Hike the Fish River Trail to see the world’s second-largest canyon — Fish River Canyon and the famous Kokerbooms (quiver trees).
  • Check out Dead Vlei (dead marsh), a striking white clay pan near Sossusvlei. It’s also home to the undecayed, petrified camel thorn trees (now extinct).
  • Visit the Skeleton Coast — a remote coastline that extends from the Kunene River to the Swakop River and is known for its shipwrecks.Average cost

With November being shoulder season, expect to spend around $50–$100 for the essentials. Tours and excursions can add to the cost.

Language and cultural considerations

Though English is the official language, many locals — especially in smaller towns — don’t speak the language. There are also quite a few regional languages, so download a translation app beforehand. 

Also, tipping is customary and is part of locals’ salaries. In most cases, 10% of your bill will do. For accommodation, you can leave your tip in the tip box at the reception.  

10. Death Valley National Park, USA

Death Valley National Park is the best place for nature lovers to travel in November in the United States, especially as the period from mid-November to before Christmas sees fewer visitors than the rest of the year.

This is also the best time for stargazing; the fall foliage makes for an excellent photo backdrop. 

A wide shot of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park.
Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley; Source: Pexels

Top activities

  • Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the Ubehebe Crater, formed around 2,100 years ago.
  • Check out viewpoints like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.
  • Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes — the easiest sand dunes to visit in the park.

Average cost

The park entrance fees cost around $30 for a vehicle and $15 for a person for seven days. And you have both free and paid campsites in the park.

Depending on whether you’re camping, glamping, or staying at a hotel nearby, expect to spend anywhere between $30–$300 per day. 

Cultural considerations

Death Valley is approximately half the size of Massachusetts — and the weather can vary depending on which part you visit, so check beforehand.

It also has 54 entrances/exits, so plan your routes before you go — especially as internet speeds get quite slow in some areas of the park.

11. Amazon Rainforest

In the Southern Hemisphere, one of the best places to visit in November is a section of the Amazon forests.

The transition from the dry to the wet season means water levels are increasing, and your chances of seeing anacondas, caimans, and river dolphins are a lot higher. 

November is also fruit season, and you can taste some pretty exotic fruits, like açaí palm, cupuaçu, and acerola cherry.

We suggest heading to Manaus (Brazil), Iquitos (Peru), or Coca (Ecuador) — they all have some pretty awesome forests and are starting points for Amazon cruises.

Dense rainforest vegetation in Ecuador, with palm fronds in the foreground.
A canopy in Ecuador; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Trek through the rainforest with guides who will show you exotic plants and wildlife.
  • Catch piranhas with guidance from local fisherfolk or go canoeing on Amazon’s rivers.
  • Go to the ‘Meeting of the Rivers’ where the black waters of the Rio Negro and the brown waters of the Solimões River meet and run side by side.

Average cost

The cost is similar in all three countries and can range from $50 for budget travelers to $200 for more experiential options, such as eco-lodges and guided excursions.

Language and cultural considerations

While Portuguese is the official language in Brazil, both Peru and Ecuador are Spanish-speaking countries. English isn’t common in any of the three.

And when you’re planning, remember that you never know what can happen when roaming around in jungles — so pack an extensive first aid kit for emergencies. Doctors also recommend vaccinations against hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever.

Best places to visit in November for unique experiences

Finally, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, here are three November celebrations in different parts of the world that guarantee an unforgettable vacation.

12. Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai is celebrated on the full moon night of the second month of the Lanna calendar, which usually falls in November.

It celebrates Lanna culture and heritage, passed down through generations. Some even believe the lanterns released into the sky during the celebrations honor ancestors and guide them into the afterlife.

While some lantern release events are free, others require a ticket. These sell quickly, so book in advance.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep illuminated at night with floating lanterns during Yi Peng festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
The sky lit up with lanterns at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Release khom loy (paper lanterns) into the night sky. It symbolizes bad luck ending and good luck coming your way.  
  • Set afloat krathongs (small lotus-shaped vessels made from banana leaves, flowers, and natural materials) on waterways with your partner. If both boats travel together, it means you’ll have a happily-ever-after.
  • Watch the parades from the area between Tha Pae Gate and the Mae Ping River.

Average cost

A comfortable stay costs just $50–$60 per day. However, as the festival becomes a major tourist attraction, it can get packed, so book your stay and other activities in advance.

Language and cultural considerations

Learn some Thai as most locals aren’t comfortable with English. And don’t shake hands. Do the wai instead — slightly bow your head while holding your palms together in front of your chest. 

13. Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca, Mexico

Dia de los Muertos — Day of the Dead — is another festival that honors the dead. It’s usually celebrated on November 1 and 2.

Unlike other somber memorials, this one is all about joy and celebrating the cycle of life. 

While this is a nationwide celebration, in Oaxaca, the festivities often extend for several days, with various events like workshops and live performances. 

A woman's face painted with traditional skull makeup for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations.
Woman with skull face paint celebrating Día de los Muertos; Source: Unsplash

Top activities

  • Watch the muerteadas, where people dress in costumes adorned with mirrors and bells to scare away evil spirits.
  • Try the Pan de Muertos (Bread of the Dead), which is only eaten in October and November.
  • Head to a cemetery to watch locals decorate the graves of their ancestors and light candles.

Average cost

Mexico is another affordable travel destination. For an average of $100 daily, you can enjoy comfortable lodging and a range of activities.

Language and cultural considerations

The official language is Spanish, and only a few people (in tourist spots and hospitality) speak English. Also, like in the United States, you’re expected to tip 10% of your bill. And, of course, don’t forget to pack both sunscreen and mosquito repellent

14. Thanksgiving in Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA

Plymouth, Massachusetts, is where the first-ever Thanksgiving celebrations happened in 1621. Since 1970, Native Americans have gathered in Plymouth each Thanksgiving for the National Day of Mourning.

They do this to recognize the historical injustices against Indigenous people and challenge traditional narratives. 

Top activities

  • Check out America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade, held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and begins at Plymouth Rock.
  • Attend the Plymouth Philharmonic Concert, held on the Friday night before Thanksgiving.
  • You can have your Thanksgiving dinner at Plimoth Patuxet Museums. They offer a traditional meal in a historical setting. Advance booking is required.

Average cost

Expect to spend around $100–$200 daily for the essentials when vacationing in Massachusetts in November.

Cultural considerations

Two things about the United States — portion sizes are huge, and tipping is the norm. For the latter, 10%–20% of your bill would work. And medical emergencies can get super expensive, super fast — so don’t forget your travel insurance.

Stay connected during your November vacation with Holafly

No matter where you go this November, you’ll need reliable travel internet — from Googling the latest hotspot to translating signage and making international calls.

And public WiFi — though free — isn’t always a safe bet. We suggest getting yourself a travel eSIM — they come with affordable plans and roaming-free VOIP calls

With Holafly, for example, you get unlimited data (with a 500 MB daily data tethering limit) for just $6.90 on the one-day plans.

If you purchase a more extended plan, daily costs go down further. Plus, if you’re traveling to multiple countries, plans activate automatically the moment you land — you don’t have to switch SIMs each time. 

Get yourself a Holafly eSIM and enjoy unlimited internet in 200+ countries worldwide! 

Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.

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